Descriptions in Science

In this lesson, we will be focusing on writing descriptions. This is particularly important because in
Science we collect quantitative and qualitative data.

 Quantitative – quantity – the data is presented as a number.

 Qualitative – quality – the data is presented as a written description.

Use the 2 above definitions to distinguish between the types of data.

Q1) A student carries out an experiment and the results are presented as follows. Classify each as
qualitative or quantitative:

a) 50g, 10g, 35g- Quantitative

b) The cell had a round shape and a green colour. It had small sections inside it. - Qualitative
c) The fastest runner in the group was Bobby. - Qualitative
d) Height: 150cm, Speed: 20km/hr, Height: 140cm, Speed: 17/hr- Quantitative

Q2) You are carrying out an experiment to investigate the types of rocks found in the backyard.
Identify the type of data you will be collecting.

Qualitative and Quantitative

Q3) You are baking a cake and trying to determine how the cake changes during the baking
process. Identify the type of data you will be collecting.

Qualitative

Q4) You will be carrying out an investigation of the 4 rocks. The purpose of the activity is to
determine the types of rocks that are found in your local environment.

I cannot do the experiment as I don’t have a backyard and I am not allowed to go far from my
apartment

Title: Rocks in the environment

Aim: To identify the types and differences of rocks found in the environment

Equipment: 4x rock from the environment

1x scale balance

30 cm string (to measure the rock)

1x ruler

Materials: (if possible, weigh the rocks and measure the dimensions: length x width x depth)

Results:

Rock Photo Description of Weight Dimensions

Appearance (length x
width x
depth)

Discussion:

1) What is the most useful characteristic for classifying a rock?

Appearance and texture.
2) Explain what could have made this activity easier for you.
If I had a backyard, I could get the rocks and do the experiment.
3) If you were to repeat this investigation, what would you change?
I would change the location from where I get my rocks
4) Compare results with another student. How do their results differ to yours?
5) What information do you need to classify each rock as sedimentary, metamorphic, or
igneous?

How it formed, where it was formed and what formed it.

Conclusion: